Topical Encyclopedia Negligence, in a biblical context, refers to the failure to give proper attention or care to duties, responsibilities, or moral obligations. It is often associated with laziness, carelessness, or a lack of diligence, which can lead to sin or harm to oneself and others. The Bible addresses negligence in various forms, emphasizing the importance of diligence, responsibility, and accountability.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, negligence is often linked with laziness and the failure to fulfill one's duties. Proverbs, a book rich in wisdom literature, frequently warns against the dangers of slothfulness and the consequences of neglecting one's responsibilities. Proverbs 24:30-34 illustrates this vividly: "I went past the field of a sluggard and by the vineyard of a man lacking judgment. Thorns had grown up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was broken down. I observed and took it to heart; I looked and received instruction: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit." The Law of Moses also addresses negligence, particularly in the context of property and personal responsibility. Exodus 21:33-34 provides an example: "If a man opens or digs a pit and fails to cover it, and an ox or a donkey falls into it, the owner of the pit shall make restitution; he must pay its owner, and the dead animal will be his." New Testament References In the New Testament, negligence is often addressed in the context of spiritual vigilance and the responsibilities of believers. Jesus' parables frequently highlight the importance of being watchful and prepared. In the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), five virgins are described as foolish because they neglected to bring extra oil for their lamps, resulting in their exclusion from the wedding feast. This parable underscores the necessity of spiritual preparedness and the consequences of negligence. The Apostle Paul also speaks to the issue of negligence in his epistles. In Romans 12:11 , he exhorts believers, "Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." This call to maintain fervency and diligence in serving God highlights the importance of avoiding spiritual negligence. Moral and Spiritual Implications Negligence, from a biblical perspective, is not merely a failure to act but a moral failing that can lead to sin and separation from God. It is often contrasted with diligence, a virtue highly esteemed in Scripture. Hebrews 6:11-12 encourages believers to "show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you will not be sluggish, but will imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises." The Bible teaches that negligence can have serious consequences, both temporally and eternally. It can lead to missed opportunities, broken relationships, and spiritual stagnation. Believers are called to be vigilant, responsible, and diligent in all aspects of life, recognizing that their actions and inactions have significant implications. Practical Applications In practical terms, avoiding negligence involves being attentive to one's duties, whether in work, family, or spiritual life. It requires a commitment to excellence and a recognition of the importance of stewardship. Colossians 3:23-24 instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." By embracing diligence and rejecting negligence, believers can honor God, fulfill their responsibilities, and positively impact the world around them. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Lack of due diligence or care; omission of duty; habitual neglect; heedlessness.2. (n.) An act or instance of negligence or carelessness. 3. (n.) The omission of the care usual under the circumstances, being convertible with the Roman culpa. A specialist is bound to higher skill and diligence in his specialty than one who is not a specialist, and liability for negligence varies accordingly. Greek 1953. epilesmone -- forgetfulness ... forgetful. From a derivative of epilanthanomai; negligence -- X forgetful. see GREEK epilanthanomai. (epilesmones) -- 1 Occurrence. 1952b, 1953. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1953.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 7960. shalu -- neglect, remissness... Word Origin (Aramaic) from a root corresponding to shalah Definition neglect, remissness NASB Word Usage fail (1), negligence (1), negligent (1), offensive (1 ... /hebrew/7960.htm - 6k Library Whether Negligence is Opposed to Prudence? Whether Negligence is a Special Sin? Of Negligence (Three Articles) Whether Negligence Can be a Mortal Sin? Whether Ignorance is a Sin? A Religious Person is not Perfect by his Profession. ... Whether Imprudence is a Special Sin? Whether the Will is Good when it Abides by Erring Reason? Letter cxxiv. To Avitus. Truth Hidden when not Sought After. Thesaurus Negligence (2 Occurrences)... heedlessness. 2. (n.) An act or instance of negligence or carelessness. 3 ... varies accordingly. Multi-Version Concordance Negligence (2 Occurrences). ... /n/negligence.htm - 7k Negligent (7 Occurrences) Neglect (19 Occurrences) Neglects (3 Occurrences) Lapse (9 Occurrences) Lose (59 Occurrences) Gross (12 Occurrences) Diligence (31 Occurrences) Abner (54 Occurrences) Assassination (1 Occurrence) Resources What does the Bible say about restitution? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the cause of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church? | GotQuestions.org Negligence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Negligence (2 Occurrences)Ezra 4:22 Daniel 6:4 Subtopics Related Terms |
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